Bhubaneswar: The country’s mining sector contribution to the national GDP will grow from the present 2.5% to 5 % in next 10 years, said the Nalco CMD TK Chand.

“India, endowed with 90 major and minor minerals, is all set to increase its GDP from 2.67 trillion dollar to 5.00 trillion dollar in next 5 years. In such a situation, the mining sector should gear up to enhance its contribution towards the economic growth of the country. With new technologies – 3-D Painting, 3-D Mapping, Simulation Modeling, use of drones etc., along with innovation and sustainable approaches towards mining, will increase its contribution towards national economy from the current 2.5% to 5% of GDP in next 10 years,” said the CMD while addressing the inaugural session of the Sustainable Mining Summit,organized by Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI) in association with SMI India and PTPL, here on Thursday.

Chand, in his address, stressed on mining with mind to attain sustainable development. “The focus of the time should be on optimal mining, along with implementing concepts like Net Zero Mining, Scientific Mining and People’s Engagement,” added Dr. Chand. He also stressed on the inclusion of representatives from industries and mining sector in the utilization of the District Mineral Funds, which would further the development of the mining areas.

Odisha government industries department principal secretary Sanjeev Chopra graced the occasion as chief guest and urged the industries to act as good corporate citizens. In his address, he also sought for a collaboration between the Central government, State government and the mining industries to achieve the goal of sustainable mining.

FIMI president Sunil Duggal, vice president R.L. Mohanty, secretary general R.P. Sharma also spoke on the occasion.